12 Properties of Metals | With Suitable Examples

Metals are substances which we see in daily life like keys, chains, jewellery etc.

They have properties different than non-metals.

There are many types of metals in nature and they are widely used by man in daily life.

Some examples include iron, zinc, mercury, sodium, lead etc.

Properties of Metals

Physical properties

1.Hardness: Metals are very hard by nature (except few like mercury) and they cannot be easily torn or broken. This makes more durable and hence can be used for long standing needs like buildings, bridge construction etc. Metals like iron, aluminum are widely used in construction of heavy machines and also constructions.

2. Density & Weight: Metals have very high density. Hence a small size of metal would have more weight than comparative other materials.

3. Tensile strength: Metals have good tensile strength so they can be molded into different shapes.

4. Luster: Metals have shiny surfaces. Hence metals like gold, silver, platinum, copper have heavy use for decorative jewelry. Their powders are added into making metallic paints.

5. Insoluble: Metals are insoluble in water or any other solvents. Their oxides are soluble in acids and water.

6. Corrode: Metals tend to get oxidized when exposed to air and get corroded. Due to corrosion they get destroyed overtime.

7. Conductivity: Metals are good conductors of heat and electricity. Hence, metals like copper, silver, aluminum etc are used for making electric wires.

8. High melting points: Metals have high melting point. Hence they appear to be heat resistant. Due high melting point and also hardness, they used in making automobile engines.

9. Stretching and malleability: Most metals show the property of expansion on heating. This feature helps in other uses like thermostats, forming desired shapes etc.

Chemical properties:

1. High molecular weights: Metals have high atomic number and also atomic weights.

2. Metallic oxides: Metals can form oxides. These oxides are alkaline in nature and have high pH above 7 when dissolved in water.

3. They react with acids. Metals react with acids and get eroded slowly.

4. Free electrons: Metals have free electrons in the outer most shells. Hence they easily give out electrons and tend to from ionic bonds.